Academic Catalog

Exercise and Sport Sciences (EXSS)

EXSS 12000 Anatomy and Physiology I (LA)

Develops a comprehensive understanding of the close interrelationship between anatomy and physiology as seen in the human organism. Covers the cells and tissues: epithelial, connective, muscle, and nerve. (F,Y)
4 Credits

EXSS 12100 Anatomy and Physiology II (LA)

Continuation of EXSS 12000. Covers the circulatory, endocrine, ventilatory, renal, digestive, and reproductive systems. Also reviews the muscular system from both a functional and a structural perspective. Prerequisites: EXSS 12000. (S,Y)
4 Credits

EXSS 12500 Foundations of Human Performance and Wellness (NLA)

This course provides students with an introduction to areas of exercise science focused on enhancing human performance and wellness. Details of some applied fields within Exercise Science (e.g. clinical exercise physiology, health & wellness, strength & conditioning) and how they impact human performance are emphasized. The range of human performances, from sports to prevention of disease and rehabilitation are discussed. Students will gain insight into career opportunities within exercise science aimed at enhancing human performance & wellness. Lecture and practical learning experiences will introduce students to skills needed to be a competent exercise instructor and leader. (F,Y)
2 Credits

EXSS 13000 Pre-Athletic Training Practicum 1 (NLA)

Introduces elements of health care, the athletic training profession, and clinical practice. Presents basic skills, such as taping, wrapping, joint and muscle assessment, application of simple therapeutic techniques, safety, and clinic organization. Part 1 of a 6-course Pre-Athletic Training Practicum series. (F,Y)
1 Credit

EXSS 13500 Pre-Athletic Training Practicum 2 (NLA)

Reinforces elements of health care, the athletic training profession, and clinical practice. Introduces the specific health care structure of athletic training at Ithaca College. Presents basic skills for applying various physical agents. Part 2 of a 6-course Pre-Athletic Training Practicum series. Prerequisites: EXSS 13000. (S,Y)
1 Credit

EXSS 17300 Fieldwork in Exercise Science I (NLA)

Practical observational experience in private, university, professional, hospital, corporate, clinical, or a community setting where exercise is used as the primary modality to enhance physical performance. The objective is to observe closely the daily operations and special functions implemented in these settings and the practice of using exercise to improve physical capacity. Prerequisites: Application and permission of exercise science coordinator. 1 credit. (Sum,Y)
1 Credit

EXSS 20200 Sport and Exercise Psychology (LA)

Introduction to the psychological factors that influence individual and group sport and exercise participation. Psychological skills training (PST) techniques used to enhance sport and exercise performance are presented. Topics include exercise and rehabilitation adherence, management of eating disorders and substance abuse, burnout and overtraining, self-confidence, goal setting, anxiety and stress management, concentration and attention control, imagery and visualization, group cohesion, sport and exercise leadership, motivation, and communication. Prerequisites: Any 100-level course. (F,Y)
3 Credits

EXSS 21000 Pre-Athletic Training Practicum 3 (NLA)

Reinforces elements of health care, the athletic training profession, and clinical practice. Expands on skills learned in courses from the Exercise Science curriculum (Anatomy & Physiology I, Anatomy & Physiology II, Kinesiology), including palpation, goniometry, manual muscle testing, and neuromuscular screen. Part 3 of a 6-course Pre-Athletic Training Practicum series. Prerequisites: EXSS 13500. (F,Y)
1 Credit

EXSS 21500 Pre-Athletic Training Practicum 4 (NLA)

Reinforces elements of health care, the athletic training profession, and clinical practice. Expands on skills learned in courses from the Exercise Science curriculum (Anatomy & Physiology I, Anatomy & Physiology II, Foundations of Human Performance and Wellness, Kinesiology), including stretching and strengthening exercises. Introduces assisted ambulatory and general medical assessment skills. Part 4 of a 6-course Pre-Athletic Training Practicum series. Prerequisites: EXSS 21000. (S,Y)
1 Credit

EXSS 22000 Kinesiology (LA)

Examines the anatomical structures and mechanical aspects of human movement. Emphasis is placed on the functional anatomy of the musculoskeletal and articular systems. Pathologies of upper and lower extremities and trunk are examined for contributions to abnormal patterns of posture, movement, and locomotion. Basic neuromuscular and biomechanical principles are introduced. Laboratory exercises concentrate on the role of muscle and joint action during basic movements and the adaptations that can result from pathologic conditions. The focus is on individual joint function and the integrated function of several joints during complex activities such as normal human locomotion. Prerequisites: EXSS 12000, EXSS 12100 (can be taken concurrently). (S,Y)
4 Credits

EXSS 24600 Prevention and Care of Athletic Injuries (NLA)

Introduction to basic concepts in athletic training, with emphasis on anatomical bases and mechanisms of common athletic injuries. Basics of injury prevention, recognition, and initial care are covered. Prerequisites: EXSS 12000. (S,Y)
3 Credits

EXSS 26200 Personal Training (NLA)

Develop rationale and theory for the development of health-related fitness programs for the adult fitness participant. Understand how to conduct preparticipation health screening through client consultation. Learn how to develop exercise programs from a client’s needs analysis. Understand the necessary skills required of the personal trainer and how to develop good client rapport and effective exercise leadership. Develop an understanding of programming for unique populations (i.e. – older adult, obese, etc.). The class format includes lecture and discussion. Material is geared toward meeting learning objectives for personal training certification. Prerequisite: EXSS 12100. (F,Y)
3 Credits

EXSS 26400 Strength and Conditioning Foundations (NLA)

This course examines the building blocks necessary to design, implement, and test a sport specific training program. Assessment tools will be examined and how their results are used to develop training programs for the athlete will be discussed. Determination of training needs through individualized, sport specific needs analyses and performance goal setting is emphasized. Short and long term benefits of training programs and the application of training cycles are discussed. The course develops the theoretical framework for the practice-based application classes that follow. The course helps prepare the student for a national certification exam. Prerequisites: EXSS 12100, EXSS 12500. (F)
3 Credits

EXSS 26500 Practicum in Health-Related Assessment (NLA)

Develop skills in administering health screening, assessments for cardiovascular endurance, muscular fitness, flexibility, body composition, and functional fitness. Majority of learning is fostered through review of video lectures, supervised practice, and arranged experiences in a full-functioning Wellness Clinic. Material is geared toward meeting learning objectives for national certification. Prerequisites: EXSS 12100, EXSS 12500. (F,Y)
1 Credit

EXSS 27300 Community Service in Exercise and Sport Sciences (NLA)

Volunteer work in the community. This experience emphasizes donating time to promote community well-being, using skills developed in exercise and sport sciences programs. Examples include working at health fairs, checking blood pressure, measuring body composition, and determining blood lipid profiles. Pass/fail only. Prerequisites: EXSS 26200; permission of the instructor. (F-S,Y)
1 Credit

EXSS 30200 Psychology of Injury in Sport and Exercise (NLA)

Designed to provide an in-depth study of the psychological causes and consequences of sport and exercise related injuries. This course will examine issues associated with onset, treatment and rehabilitation of sport injury and the mental training strategies commonly used for injury rehabilitation. Topics include motivation, adherence, return to play, mental health concerns, interview, and assessment. Prerequisites: EXSS 20200. (S,Y)
3 Credits

EXSS 30600 Biomechanical Principles of Human Movement (LA)

Biomechanics of human movement provides an in-depth exploration of the biomechanics of human motion. Concepts and skills used to perform and interpret biomechanical analyses of human movement including anthropometry, kinematic analysis, and joint kinetics are covered. Biomechanics of fundamental movement skills including running, jumping/landing and lifting are examined in lecture and during hands on laboratory experiences. Prerequisites: PHYS 10100 or PHYS 11700, and EXSS 22000. (S,Y)
4 Credits

EXSS 31100 Biopsychosocial Foundations of Clinical Practice (LA)

Describes human health and illness from a personal context. Explains biological, psychological, and social factors and their complex interactions in order to formulate more effective approaches to health, illness, and health care delivery. Applies the biopsychosocial model to healthcare studies and clinical practice. Prerequisites: PSYC 10300; EXSS 24600. (F,Y)
Attributes: DV
3 Credits

EXSS 31200 Pre-Athletic Training Practicum 5 (NLA)

Reinforces elements of health care, the athletic training profession, and clinical practice. Introduces procedures for medical coverage at practices, competitions, and in the event of emergency response. Prepares students for cardiopulmonary rescusitation (CPR) and automated external defribrillator (AED) certification. Discusses specific considerations for various collegiate sports. EXSS 31200: Pre-Athletic Training Practicum 5 will be the 5th of the 6-course Pre-Athletic Training Practicum series. Prerequisites: EXSS 21500. (F,Y)
1 Credit

EXSS 32000 Neuromuscular Control (LA)

Study of sensorimotor and musculoskeletal systems involved in producing coordinated and purposeful movements. Injury, training, practice, learning, and other cognitive-emotional processes are examined as they affect the neuromuscular control of finely coordinated skills and vigorous physical performance. Emphasis is placed on understanding the relevant neurophysiological mechanisms of movement and how training and practice can be used to maximize performance, wellness, and rehabilitation ease. Exploration of theories of motor learning and control, from the general motor program to the dynamic system theory. Prerequisites: EXSS 22000 or PTBS 31300; junior standing. (S,Y)
3 Credits

EXSS 32100 Exercise Physiology (LA)

Examines physiological changes during exercise, after exercise, and during a training period. Also considers efficiency, needs, and limitations of body systems, and their interrelationships. Lecture, demonstration, and laboratory. Prerequisites: EXSS 12100; junior standing. (F-S,Y)
4 Credits

EXSS 34900 Fieldwork in Exercise and Sport Sciences (NLA)

Practical experience in corporate or clinical settings, amateur and professional sport agencies, and community organizations. Focus is on observation, guided learning, and supervised practical experiences. Prerequisites: Exercise and sport sciences major or minor; junior standing or above; permission of department chair. (F-S,Y)
1-6 Credits

EXSS 37500 Research Methods in Exercise and Sport Sciences (LA)

Examination of the investigative methods used in exercise and sport sciences research. Design of experiments and application of statistical techniques for several types of research are explored. Includes proposal preparation for an original research project. Prerequisites: MATH 14400, MATH 14500, MATH 15500, or PSYC 20700; WRTG 10600 or ICSM equivalent. (F,S,Y)
Attributes: WI
3 Credits

EXSS 38400 Practicum in Athletic Testing (NLA)

Develop skills to conduct sports specific needs analyses. Students’ abilities to implement testing protocols to evaluate athlete / client condition on health- and skill-related components of fitness is enhanced. Statistical analysis is used to identify strengths and weaknesses. Profiles are devised to identify objective program directions. Material is geared toward meeting learning objectives for national certification. Prerequisites: EXSS 26200 and EXSS 26400. (F,Y)
1 Credit

EXSS 38500 Practicum in Resistance Exercise and Olympic Weightlifting (NLA)

Explore and execute training modes to enhance strength and power in active populations. Emphasis is on technique and teaching for development of performance in a variety of active populations. Discussion and demonstration, personal skill development, and leading peers in skill development are the primary means of instruction. Material is geared toward meeting learning objectives for national certification. Prerequisites: EXSS 26200 and EXSS 26400. (S,Y)
1 Credit

EXSS 38600 Practicum in Field-Based Conditioning (NLA)

Develop skills in the proper execution of exercises to enhance health- and skill-related components of fitness (i.e. flexibility, speed, agility, power and aerobic / anaerobic endurance). Students’ abilities to devise and implement field-based conditioning modes will be enhanced. Emphasis is on technique and teaching for development of athletic performance in a variety of athletic populations. Discussion, demonstration, personal skill development, and leading athletes / clients in skill development are the primary means of instruction. Material is geared toward meeting learning objectives for national certification. Prerequisite: EXSS 26200 and EXSS 26400. (S,Y)
1 Credit

EXSS 38700 Practicum in Performance and Wellness Testing (NLA)

Emphasizes skill development in graded exercise testing through practice-based instruction. Assessing the health status of an individual, protocol selection, and utilizing results to guide exercise programming will be discussed. Understanding electrocardiography and safety and emergency procedures will be highlighted. Majority of learning is fostered through arranged experiences in a full-functioning Wellness Clinic and Exercise Physiology Laboratory. Material is geared toward meeting learning objectives for national certification. Prerequisites: EXSS 26200; EXSS 26400; EXSS 32100. (S,Y)
1 Credit

EXSS 39000 Advanced Strength and Conditioning (NLA)

This enhances students understanding of strength and conditioning service provision through examination of more advanced concepts of performance testing, program design and program implementation. Technological advancements and recent developments in the areas of performance testing and athlete monitoring will be examined. Objective determination of athletes’ needs will be emphasized further. Student understanding of program design will be enhanced through discussion and application of advanced periodization models. The course helps prepare the student for the national certification exam. Prerequisites: EXSS 26400. (S,Y)
3 Credits

EXSS 39900-39901 Selected Topics in Exercise Science and Athletic Training (LA)

Topics of current interest to faculty and students. Experimental courses are offered under this course number and title. This course may be repeated for credit for different selected topics. (IRR)
Attributes: NLA
1-3 Credits

EXSS 40800 Social Psychology of Sport (NLA)

Provides a comprehensive analysis of the field of social psychology and the theories that apply to the world of sport and physical activity. Focuses upon and provides an overview of the major social factors and theories that affect those involved in sport and exercise. Encourages discussion regarding the interactions between the athlete, team, coach, and spectators. Explores team/group dynamics and cohesion, leadership, and coach-athlete relationships. Prerequisites: EXSS 30200. (S,Y)
3 Credits

EXSS 41100 Evidence-Based Practice (NLA)

Introduces evidence-based practice and clinical research, including epidemiologic, etiologic, diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic study designs. Discusses the clinical scientific method and the systematic process of moving from observation to intervention in clinical research. Emphasizes the critical appraisal of research, including identifying potential sources of bias, making a professional judgment of the seriousness of the risk of bias, and interpreting clinical research metrics to guide decision-making and best practices for patients. Prerequisites: EXSS 37500. (S,Y)
3 Credits

EXSS 41200 Pre-Athletic Training Practicum 6 (NLA)

Reinforces elements of health care, the athletic training profession, and clinical practice. Discusses various professional and regulatory elements of athletic training including, the domains of practice, interprofessional practice, professional education, and governance. Prepares students for entry into the Athletic Training Program. Part 6 of a 6-course Pre-Athletic Training Practicum series. Prerequisites: EXSS 31200. (S,Y)
Attributes: CP
1 Credit

EXSS 42100 Human Performance Physiology (LA)

Expands on the study of the physiological mechanisms that regulate the body's responses and adaptations to exercise. Examines special physiological considerations of sex, development and aging, obesity, pregnancy, and environmental stress (e.g., altitude, extreme temperature). Discusses popular pharmaceutical and dietary manipulations used to enhance exercise performance. Introduces experimental research in performance physiology. Prerequisites: EXSS 32100. (F,Y)
3 Credits

EXSS 42200 Exercise and Rehabilitation Psychology (LA)

Discussion of the psychological antecedents of exercise, including barriers and adherence to exercise or rehabilitation regimens. Particular attention will also be given to wellness, stress, the biobehavioral basis of coronary heart disease and other illnesses, and the psychodynamics of rehabilitative medicine. Prerequisites: EXSS 20200; EXSS 32100 or EXSS 34200 or EXSS 30200; Junior standing. (F, Y)
3 Credits

EXSS 45000-45100 Independent Study in Exercise Science and Athletic Training (LA)

Individual study program for the investigation of special issues or topics in the field of exercise or sport science that have such breadth of cultural or psychological material, such rigor and depth of theoretic structure, or such play of broad intellectual and aesthetic themes as to be classified as liberal arts. Arranged individually between student and faculty sponsor according to guidelines available from the department. Permission of department chair required. (IRR)
0.5-3 Credits

EXSS 46000 Internship in Exercise Science and Athletic Training (NLA)

Supervised work experience in corporate or clinical exercise settings, amateur and professional sport agencies, and community sport organizations. Student assumes a leadership role in various job-related activities and performs administrative tasks in support of such activities under an experienced agency supervisor and faculty sponsor. Permission of department chair required. (IRR)
6-12 Credits

EXSS 46600 Administration, Mentoring, and Professional Preparation (NLA)

Provides opportunities to develop administrative and leadership skills. Emphasis is on appreciation for excellent leadership, staffing, equipping, and operations of a fully-functioning human performance facility. Majority of learning occurs by leading and working with apprentice students (i.e., underclass) in the program and through the completion of a project that allows the student to design their own facility. Preparation for external certification is emphasized. Prerequisites: EXSS 38500, EXSS 39000. (F,Y)
3 Credits

EXSS 47000 Applied Practice in Strength and Conditioning and Wellness (NLA)

Enhance understanding of service provision in strength and conditioning for performance and wellness through applied practice. Students will assist strength and conditioning and health and wellness professionals in the delivery of support services to athletes / clients. Areas of support may include performance testing, program design, exercise leadership, reflective practice and athlete, client and coach education. The objective is to observe closely and have some supervised experiences in the daily operations and special functions of strength and conditioning / health and fitness facilities. A clear focus for internship planning will be developed during this experience. Prerequisites: EXSS 38600; EXSS 38700; EXSS 39000. (F,S,Y)
2 Credits

EXSS 47300 Internship: Strength and Conditioning (NLA)

A practical learning experience in a setting using exercise for athletic performance enhancement. Sites for internships include strength and conditioning programs in private, university and professional settings. Students are involved with the daily operations of the agency. Prerequisites: EXSS 46600; a minimum GPA of 2.50 in specific major requirements; permission of the exercise science coordinator. (F,S,Y)
Attributes: CP
6-12 Credits

EXSS 47500 Research Team I (LA)

Explores research experiences including the synthesis of the relevant scientific resources, review/development of research question, and initial data collection involving hands on experience with testing apparatus by teams of students under the direction of one or more faculty members. Prerequisites: EXSS 37500. (F,Y)
2 Credits

EXSS 47600 ICC Capstone in ESAT (NLA)

This course will provide exploration and self-reflection upon the relationship between the Ithaca College core curriculum courses and its application to the field of Exercise Science and/or Athletic Training. Emphasis on the creation of a reflective artifact that demonstrates the changes that have occurred as a result of the ICC experience inside and outside of their major study. Permission of instructor required. (F,S,Y)
Attributes: CP
0 Credit

EXSS 47700 Research Team II (LA)

Analyzes the research experience that includes completion of data collection, data analyses, interpretation, and results dissemination by teams of students under the direction of one or more faculty members. Prerequisite: EXSS 47500. (S,Y)
Attributes: CP
2 Credits